Sweet Spiced Freekeh with Fresh Figs Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ cup cracked freekeh
• 1 star anise
• 4 cardamom pods
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
• ¼ tsp grated nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 8 fresh figs, stems removed
• ¼ cup honey, plus extra to serve
• 0.33 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped
• 2 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt, to serve

1. Place the freekeh, star anise, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a large saucepan. Add the salt and cover with 2 cups of water. Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
2. Meanwhile, preheat the broiler to its medium setting. Grease and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut a cross in the top of each fig, cutting almost to the bottom so they open up like a flower. Place on the baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of honey. Place the sheet under the broiler and cook for 10 minutes or until the figs are lightly broiled.
3. Remove and discard the star anise and cardamom pods. Add the remaining honey to the cooked freekeh and mix well. Divide the freekeh mixture between four plates. Top each plate with two figs and a quarter of the pistachios. Garnish with mint and drizzle with honey, if you wish. Serve with Greek yogurt.